With Central America becoming an increasingly popular travel destination, I thought an article about what to pack may be somewhat useful. As an experienced traveller, and packing expert, here are the top 10 items on my Central America packing list.
Now, besides your standard items such as passport, clothing, toothbrushes, shoes and sunglasses, you need to think about the essentials. Items that will make your trip more enjoyable and help you along the way.
Here are my top 10 items to pack for Central America
Packing cubes
Without a doubt, the first item in my bag. Packing cubes are cheap but my oh my they are essential. They keep your bag tidy, organised and clean. Packing cubes allow you to separate your T-shirts, trousers, shorts, underwear and virtually every other item. You know what’s where and it’s all easily accessible.
Waterproof jacket
When it rains in Central America, it rains. You may not see rain the whole duration of your travels. Or you might get it every day for weeks on end. Just like I did in Minca, Colombia. I don’t think I need to explain to you why you need a waterproof jacket. Pack a lightweight one, they take up no room and seriously improve your mood on a grey rainy day.
Filter water bottle
Something you may not think about but an item I wish I had taken. Whilst many hostels do provide ‘fresh’ drinking water, I often found myself with a funny tummy. Places like Nicaragua and Costa Rica actually have drinking tap water! I think it’s best to play it safe and bring along a filtered water bottle.
Travel clothes detergent
It’s not always possible to get your clothes into a launder. Having your own bottle of detergent is great for emergency situations and is economical too! These bottles are fairly cheap and great for washing your underwear or small items when you are otherwise unable to.
Biro pen
An absolute essential on my Central America packing list. These come in handy for the dreaded border crossings or filling out your details for accommodation, activities and more. Something I forgot to pack… I constantly found myself asking fellow travellers if I could borrow a pen. For such a small, cheap item it is definitely making it into the top 10 items to pack for Central America
Padlock
A small coded padlock is a great item to pack, yet one you might forget. These are perfect for locking your bag away in lockers provided by hostels. Whilst 99% of travellers are great there is still 1% that can’t be trusted.
Portable charger
Definitely one of the top 10 items to pack for Central America. We all live on our phones now, and some things are even becoming impossible without them. A portable charger will allow you to keep all of your gadgets charged on long bus journeys. Just like Jess’ 40 40-hour nightmare journey from Lima to Cusco.
Eye mask
Goes without saying. Maybe you’ve been up partying all night or maybe you’re just having a nightmare bus journey like mine from Antigua to Leon. An eye mask is something you will be glad you’ve packed. You can try to hide yourself from the daylight and catch up on some lost sleep. Definitely should be on everyone’s Central America packing list.
Flip-flops
Flip-flops are funny old things, yet they’re great for walking around the communal areas or even using the showers. They stop you from standing on glass, getting dirty feet and avoiding the classic verruca. I lost my pair in week 1 and found myself longing for them for the next 4 months. They’re only cheap and a great addition.
Universal plug with multiple ports
The final item of my top 10 items to pack for Central America. These allow you to charge all your gadgets at once, in any country across the globe. They’re pretty cheap on Amazon and save you buying local adapters everywhere you go. You can find one HERE.
Finishing note:
Look, in reality, none of these items are essential. All you really need is your passport and love for adventure. They will, however, make your life much easier for the next few weeks or months and are definitely the items on my Central America packing list.
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